iPadOS 26 is the release that closes the gap between iPad and traditional computing for most users. The combination of improved multitasking, a redesigned home screen, and Apple Intelligence integration makes the iPad a legitimate computer for the majority of workflows. Here is what changed.
External Display Support Improvements
iPadOS 26 finally fixes the external display experience. The iPad can now drive an external display at full resolution while the iPad screen operates independently — a workflow that competitors have offered for years. You can use the external display as a separate workspace with its own apps, or mirror specific applications.
Redesigned Multitasking
The Stage Manager interface has been rebuilt. App windows now support true resizing, not just the constrained presets from previous versions. The new “Layouts” feature lets you save and name specific window arrangements for specific workflows — open your writing setup with one tap, your research setup with another.
Apple Pencil and Notes Integration
The Notes app has handwriting recognition that works in real-time as you write, integrated with Apple Intelligence. Write notes by hand, search them instantly, and have Apple Intelligence summarize your handwritten notes. The new Freeform canvas in Notes supports unlimited zoom and better collaboration tools.
Files App Improvements
The Files app gains column view for file browsing (similar to Finder’s column view), improved external drive support, and a redesigned document picker that shows recent files and iCloud content more clearly.
Which iPads Support iPadOS 26
iPadOS 26 requires iPad Pro (2018 and later), iPad Air (2019 and later), iPad (2020 and later), or iPad mini (2019 and later). Apple Intelligence features require M1 or later — the original iPad Pro and iPad Air from 2018-2020 get the base OS but not the AI features.